// Generation · 1998 — 2006

CARBURETTOR ERA

Born at Intermot Cologne in 1998, the CB600F Hornet uses the detuned 599cc four from the CBR600F (1995) producing 96hp. Steel mono-backbone chassis, 178kg dry — a simple, effective recipe that instantly became the benchmark for affordable roadsters.

82
Buyer score / 100
4
Vintages
10
Changes
3
Overhauls
5
Updates
2
Minor
↘ Changes by category
M
ENGINE
2 changes
1998
599cc inline-4 from CBR600F — 96hp / 63Nm @ 9,500rpm
1995 CBR600F engine detuned for urban tractability — 12,000rpm redline, 4 Keihin carburettors
Major
2003
New 4-2-1 stainless slash-cut exhaust + Euro 2 compliance
Medium
C
FRAME
4 changes
1998
Steel mono-backbone frame — conventional 41mm telescopic fork — 176kg dry
Major
2000
Front wheel 16" → 17" — improved cornering and braking stability
Major geometry change fixing the early understeer — simultaneous front brake system strengthening
Medium
2003
Fuel tank enlarged to 17L (from original 16L)
Medium
2005
Inverted front fork — noticeably improved road holding and rigidity
Conventional 41mm fork replaced by inverted unit — stiffer in corners, better feedback
Medium
E
ELECTRONICS
1 change
2005
Modernised instrument cluster
Minor
A
AESTHETICS
3 changes
1998
Radical naked design — 16-inch front wheel, clean fairingless lines
Major
2000
Launch of the CB600F-S — half-faired version with screen and side fairings
Medium
2003
Bodywork restyled — upswept tail unit, new side panels
Minor